By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): Ex-State Minister Lohan Ratwatte, recently arrested on allegations of possessing an illegally imported luxury car assembled locally, has been moved to the prison hospital following a court decision.

Ratwatte, apprehended by Mirihana Police on October 31 in Kandy, was initially remanded until November 07 but has now been granted permission to receive medical attention at the prison hospital.

The arrest was tied to the discovery of an unregistered, high-end vehicle at his wife’s residence in Mirihana, Nugegoda.

This three-storey property, owned by Ratwatte’s wife, Shashi Prabha Ratwatte, came under police scrutiny on October 26 following intelligence suggesting the presence of an unregistered luxury car without licence plates.

Police located the car at the residence, prompting further investigation.

Upon questioning, both Ratwatte and his wife informed police that Ratwatte’s mother-in-law occupies the residence and that the vehicle was reportedly brought there three weeks prior by Ratwatte’s private secretary.

Notably, the private secretary was recently found deceased from gunshot wounds in Katugastota, Kandy, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.

The case has cast a spotlight on the issue of unregistered vehicles within high-profile circles and raised questions regarding the potential misuse of luxury cars in Sri Lanka.

Ratwatte’s transfer to the prison hospital has led to public speculation that elite personnel accused of crime being arrested and subsequently admitted to prison hospital is an ongoing trend in Sri Lanka, easing reparation regardless of the nature of their alleged crimes.

The investigation continues into both the origins of the car and the suspicious circumstances surrounding the recent death of his private secretary.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): Axiata Group Berhad announced that Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, its CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director, will transition from his role in January 2025, as he takes on a pivotal new position with the Sri Lankan government.

Dr. Wijayasuriya has been invited to lead the country’s digital transformation strategy as Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy and in other strategic capacities.

Having accepted the invitation from the Government of Sri Lanka, Dr. Wijayasuriya has informed Axiata of his decision to step down effective January 15, 2025.

During the transitional period, he will oversee key responsibilities at Axiata, including guiding the group’s telecommunications operations across Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia, and will remain available to advise the Sri Lankan government on digital initiatives in a non-executive capacity.

Dr. Wijayasuriya’s departure marks the close of a 30-year tenure with Axiata and its predecessor, Telekom Malaysia.

Throughout his career, he has shaped the group’s strategy and elevated its influence across the Asia-Pacific region.

In recognition of his leadership and technological contributions, he was awarded the GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024, the highest honour in the global mobile industry.

Axiata’s Chairman, Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, commended Wijayasuriya, acknowledging his “visionary leadership” that has driven the group’s growth.

Axiata’s CEO and Managing Director Vivek Sood added:

“It is a great honour that one of our own has been selected to contribute at a national level. Dr Wijayasuriya’s appointment demonstrates Axiata’s dedication to developing leaders who make an impact far beyond our industry.”

As he prepares to take on his advisory role with the government, Dr. Wijayasuriya expressed deep gratitude for his time with Axiata, saying, “Being part of Axiata’s journey has been an honour. I am privileged to contribute to Sri Lanka’s digital future, bringing every lesson I’ve learned to this new role.”

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake engaged in a productive dialogue with Indian High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha at the Presidential Secretariat on November 01, focusing on fortifying the strong ties between Sri Lanka and India.

Their discussions encompassed collaborative projects, energy sector development, digitalisation, and a commitment to resolving fishing disputes affecting both nations.

During the meeting, both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of Indian-backed initiatives in Sri Lanka, assessing their progress and identifying any hurdles in implementation.

The President expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support, particularly in areas of infrastructure and regional development, which remain central to enhancing the lives of Sri Lankan citizens.

A key topic of discussion involved the longstanding fishing disputes in the Northern Sea, a complex issue affecting fishermen on both sides of the maritime boundary.

Emphasising the need for a durable solution, both parties underscored the importance of balancing the livelihoods of local fishermen whilst fostering mutual respect and cooperation.

Dissanayake affirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to advocating for the interests of its fishing communities, seeking strategies that ensure sustainable practices and fair access for both countries.

In addition to resolving regional challenges, the President expressed keen interest in tapping into India’s extensive experience in power and energy advancements, as well as digitalisation initiatives.

Recognising India’s leadership in these fields, he conveyed Sri Lanka’s interest in learning from India’s successes, with the goal of modernising energy systems and advancing digital transformation within Sri Lanka.

Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Satyanjal Pandey also participated in the discussions, which highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration across a range of sectors.

Both parties expressed optimism for ongoing engagement and the shared objective of fostering progress and stability in the region.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): After three decades of restricted access, the Achchuveli main road has reopened under the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marking a significant step towards revitalising the Northern Province’s connectivity and development.

Closed since the height of the conflict in the region, the Palaly-Achchuveli road had remained inaccessible to civilians, despite the end of hostilities over 15 years ago.

For years, residents of the Northern Province have advocated for the reopening of this critical road, which they see as a vital link to support both economic activity and easier movement within the region.

Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayagam also underscored this need in a meeting with President Dissanayake on October 22, during which he highlighted the road’s reopening as an urgent priority for the local population.

Responding to this request, President Dissanayake issued instructions for a security assessment, aiming to ensure a safe reopening process.

With support from the Ministry of Defence and Defence Secretary, officials completed a thorough review, confirming that conditions allowed for civilian access.

The Achchuveli road’s reopening was finalised yesterday (01) and is expected to make a profound impact on the region’s socio-economic activities.

Local businesses anticipate increased opportunities and improved logistics, whilst residents are hopeful that the newly accessible route will restore connections with neighbouring communities.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The annual Poppy Flower Remembrance ceremony, organised by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association, is scheduled for November 24 in Colombo, where the nation will pay tribute to its fallen soldiers.

In a briefing held today, President of the Association Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd) highlighted the symbolic significance of the poppy and the various ways the public can participate in this commemorative event.

As part of the initiative, the Association has produced poppy flower stickers, available for purchase at 50 rupees each, and badges priced at 100, 150, and 250 rupees, which can be displayed on vehicles or personal items.

These poppies have also been distributed to several schools, offering students the opportunity to contribute with donations starting at 20 rupees or more.

Lt. Col. Siyambalapitiya elaborated on how the funds generated will directly support the Ranaviru Home in Katana, a residence for about 30 elderly war veterans.

“The funds we raise go toward essential support for our veterans,” he explained. “This includes funding medical treatments, scholarships for veterans’ children, eyeglass provisions, loans, and training for self-employment.”

Retired Major General Udaya Perera, Chairman of the Poppy Flower Committee, underscored the poppy’s deeper significance beyond its traditional use, saying, “Wearing a poppy is an important gesture of respect towards our soldiers. It’s a symbol of honour that we hope all citizens will adopt, as it speaks more of respect and remembrance than mere financial support.”

He emphasised the meaningful tradition as an act of unity and collective memory, inviting the public to display the poppy as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the nation’s servicemen and women.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Police have announced plans to re-evaluate the security provisions allocated to former presidents, indicating that further adjustments may be made as necessary.

Police Spokesperson DIG Nihal Thalduwa clarified that this decision follows a review prompted by recent public and official requests regarding the matter.

According to DIG Thalduwa, the recent notifications on reducing security measures were issued based on the recommendations of a committee formed by the Ministry of Public Security.

This committee was tasked with assessing the current security requirements and identifying any potential areas where security details could be reduced without compromising safety.

Thalduwa further assured that any forthcoming protests or additional requests from the public or relevant authorities will be considered by the committee, which will make determinations in response to evolving security needs.

This process, he explained, is part of a comprehensive effort to ensure a balanced approach to security management for former heads of state.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): Following the tragic bus accident involving students and faculty of the Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) occurred yesterday (01) morningnear the Ambagas junction on the Dunhinda-Badulla road, the Defence Ministry of Sri Lanka issued a statement regarding the event.

The bus, transporting 42 individuals from KDU’s Southern Campus in Sooriyawewa, faced a serious accident that left two female students dead and injured 40 others, who were promptly hospitalised, the statement read.

The passengers included 36 students from the university’s 39th intake, alongside three lecturers, a supervising instructor, a senior military officer overseeing the group, and the bus driver.

The Ministry further stated that the two students who tragically lost their lives were residents of Kurunegala and Nivithigala. Of those hospitalised at Badulla General Hospital, seven individuals are being treated in intensive care, with one reported to be in critical condition.

KDU’s Vice-Chancellor expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, assuring that the university is providing complete support for the funeral arrangements.

Following instructions from the Defence Secretary, a Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 412 helicopter has been stationed at Diyatalawa Air Force Base, prepared to airlift critically injured individuals to Colombo for advanced medical care if necessary.

Preliminary information suggests that the accident may have resulted from a mechanical issue with the bus.

The Ministry of Defence extended its gratitude to the local community members for their swift response, which was instrumental in rescuing the injured, and to Dr. Palita Rajapaksa and the hospital staff for their immediate, dedicated service.

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By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The Presidential Secretariat has clarified recent reports suggesting that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s security detail has been reduced, labelling them as entirely false.

In a statement, the Secretariat affirmed that all entitlements under the Presidents’ Entitlements Act No. 4 of 1986 are being fully upheld for Rajapaksa, dismissing any claims to the contrary.

The Secretariat emphasised that Rajapaksa retains his full benefits as outlined by the law, including his official residence in Colombo 07, along with a pension and a secretary’s allowance.

Additionally, his official vehicles, consisting of a 2008 Mercedes Benz 600 Maybach, a 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser, and a 2013 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG 4×4, remain at his disposal.

For these, he receives a monthly fuel allowance of 1,950 litres, along with three dedicated drivers.

Rajapaksa’s security is provided by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Public Security. His protection detail comprises a combination of military and police personnel, including seven army officers, 56 other army ranks, and 180 police officers.

This extensive security team also includes specialised roles, such as 29 police drivers, and incorporates three commando officers and additional unit officers to maintain close protection.

To ensure that former presidents’ privileges remain relevant and appropriate, a Cabinet sub-committee has been established to assess these entitlements.

Future modifications, if any, will be based on the recommendations of this committee, according to the Secretariat.